Morocco to Launch 2nd Satellite Shortly

After launching its first reconnaissance satellite on November 8th 2017, Morocco is preparing to launch its second one by the end of the year, according to local press reports.

The 2nd satellite, like the first, is built by Airbus defense & Space Company. It will be launched next November from the European space port of Kourou in French Guiana, says Al Massae daily.
This €500 million satellite will enable the North African country to enhance further its security. It is capable of delivering high-resolution optical data in record time and monitoring the borders, road infrastructure, transport networks and the coastline, which extends over 3000 km.

The 1st satellite baptized “Mohammed VI-A Satellite” is capable of observing a broad band of some 800 km. It can be used for mapping and land surveying activities, spatial planning, monitoring of agricultural activities, environmental changes and prevention and management of natural disasters.

Morocco’s two satellites will operate as a constellation in the same orbit, phased 180° apart. According to experts, they can provide imagery anywhere in the world in less than 24 hours. This satellite system offers a wide coverage, fine detail, intensive monitoring, extensive archives and 50 cm resolution imagery.

The launching of this 2nd satellite by Morocco is expected to trigger again fears in neighboring countries, especially in arch-rival Algeria wherein the Generals and the military establishment have realized the strategic advantage gained by Morocco against their risky decision of spending billions of petrodollars on arms purchases.